A pharmacist has issued a health alert for people taking five types of commonly prescribed medications, warning they could face harmful effects during the ongoing heatwave. Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at Kingston University, explained that certain drugs interfere with the body's mechanisms for regulating temperature, including sweating, blood flow to the skin, and fluid balance.
Which Medications Are Affected?
Kamdar identified five categories: antidepressants, antipsychotics, heart medications, stimulants, and insulin. She noted that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may reduce sweating, impairing the body's cooling ability. Antipsychotics, used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, can disrupt the hypothalamus, potentially preventing patients from feeling overheated or thirsty, leading to low blood pressure and reduced heart function.
Heart Medications and Stimulants
Beta-blockers restrict blood flow to the skin, making it harder to dissipate heat. Diuretics increase urine output, risking dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Ramipril and losartan can reduce the natural urge to drink. Stimulants prescribed for ADHD can elevate body temperature, speed up metabolism, and mask exhaustion, increasing the risk of heatstroke.
Insulin Concerns
Warm temperatures cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to faster insulin absorption and potential hypoglycaemia. Heat can also degrade insulin, reducing its effectiveness. Kamdar advised storing insulin in the fridge and checking for changes in appearance.
Preventative Measures
Kamdar recommends checking medication storage labels, staying hydrated, avoiding peak heat hours, and not stopping prescriptions without medical advice. She warned that anti-inflammatory painkillers and lithium can become more dangerous if dehydrated. The heatwave continues with red and amber warnings across England and Wales, and temperatures reached 36.1C in Gosport, Hampshire, breaking the June record.
